Schools in a cycle of success

TWO local schools scored wins in demonstration events as human powered vehicles (HPV) provided an exciting curtain raiser for the 2006 Jayco Herald Sun Tour on Saturday, 14 October.
Firetruck from Berwick Secondary College won the men’s section and Something Blonde from St Margaret’s School won the women’s section of the HPV demonstration.
Casey and Cardinia competitors joined schools and teams from as far away as Bendigo, Maryborough and Wonthaggi to present their unique creations as part of the oneday cycling festival in Carlton.
With many teams accustomed to 24hour races, the ‘sprint’ saw fast racing, slick overtaking and some frantic work in the pits at rider changes.
Demonstration organiser John Perrin said 24 HPVs raced around the Lygon Street criterium for 45 minutes before the final stage of the big event.
He said the RACV made prerace safety checks on the vehicles and provided trackside assistance.
“This demonstration was fantastic for raising awareness of our sport, as well as highlighting the responses young people are making to the environment and rising fuel costs,” Mr Perrin said.
“The vehicles are primarily designed and constructed in schools by young people together with teachers, parents and community supporters.
“The students use a range of materials from carbon fibre, Kevlar, aluminium, cromoly and mild steel.
“We have vehicles on the circuit valued between $800 and $8000.”
Mr Perrin said many students involved in the demonstration were aspiring road cyclists who also rode in the finals of the Victorian Schools Cycling Championships.
“For these young men and women to be racing on the same circuit as the professionals is simply an amazing opportunity,” he said.
“The Jayco Herald Sun Tour is a brilliant spectacle of such value to this state’s youth.
“We hope to strengthen our relationship with the event in the future.”